South Africa’s water crisis calls for stronger partnerships and community action

According to Dr Jennifer Molwantwa, CEO of the Water Research Commission (WRC), ageing infrastructure, climate change, population growth and increasing demand for water are placing many municipalities under severe strain.

She says municipalities are often at the forefront of the crisis but cannot solve the country’s water challenges alone.

“The crisis is not a municipal failure. It is a sign of a nation under pressure, and the solution lies in renewed partnerships between municipalities, communities, industry and government,” says Dr Molwantwa.

The WRC estimates that South Africa loses around 37% of its treated water through leaks, burst pipes, vandalism and illegal connections before it reaches homes and businesses.

Many municipalities are also facing ageing infrastructure and maintenance backlogs, while prolonged droughts and changing weather patterns continue to place additional pressure on already stretched water systems.

Communities across Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, Free State, Limpopo and the North West have all experienced varying degrees of water interruptions linked to ageing infrastructure, low dam levels, pump failures and increasing demand.

Dr Molwantwa says local communities also have an important role to play by reporting water leaks, using water responsibly and supporting initiatives that protect local water resources.

The private sector can also contribute by investing in water-efficient technologies, supporting municipalities with innovative solutions and working alongside government to improve infrastructure and strengthen long-term water security.

The Water Research Commission’s WaterWise Nation campaign aims to encourage responsible water use by providing municipalities, schools, businesses and communities with practical tools and information to help reduce water waste.

“Water security is not the job of government alone. It is a collective responsibility shaped by the daily decisions of millions of South Africans,” Dr Molwantwa says.

She believes even small actions, such as fixing leaking taps, reporting burst pipes, using water wisely and educating future generations about conservation, can make a meaningful difference when adopted by communities across the country.